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Kia Optima I LX 2.4 (151 Hp) Automatic
Overall Rating
Kia Optima:
The Kia K5 , formerly known as the Kia Optima , is a mid-size car manufactured by Kia since 2000 and marketed globally through various nameplates. First generation cars were mostly marketed as the Optima, although the Kia Magentis name was used in Europe and Canada when sales began there in 2002. For the second-generation models, Kia used the Kia Lotze and Kia K5 name for the South Korean market, and the Magentis name globally, except in the United States, Canada, Malaysia and the Middle East, where the Optima name was retained until the 2021 model year. The K5 name is used for all markets since the introduction of the fifth generation in 2019....(Read more on Wikipedia)
I Overview:
Kia Optima (I). With 216 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1490 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Kia Optima I (Magentis) generation was not tested by Euro NCAP. Safety features were standard for its time, including available ABS.
LX 2.4 (151 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Provides a noticeable power increase over the 2.0L, offering smoother acceleration and more confident highway merging, albeit with an automatic.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is expected to be slightly less efficient than manual versions, typical for an automatic transmission of this period.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Excellent value for money in its segment
- • Spacious and comfortable interior for a mid-size sedan
- • Good range of engine options, including powerful V6s
- • Smooth and composed ride quality
- • Generous standard features for its price point
Cons:
- • Uninspired exterior styling compared to some rivals
- • Interior materials could feel less refined than competitors
- • Not as dynamically engaging as some Japanese or European sedans
- • Limited advanced safety features for its time
- • Resale value typically lower than segment leaders
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Kia |
| Model: | Optima |
| Generation: | I |
| Modification (Engine): | LX 2.4 (151 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | 2000 |
| End of production: | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 151 Hp @ 6000 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 64.2 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 216 Nm @ 4500 rpm. |
| Engine displacement: | 2351 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 86.5 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 100 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1490 |
| Max. weight: | 1885 |
| Max load: | 395 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 368 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 65 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4722 mm |
| Width: | 1815 mm |
| Height: | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase: | 2700 mm |
| Front track: | 1540 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1530 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 10.4 m |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/70 R14; 205/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
Your first impression of the Kia Optima in one word? Go!